Olive Press Javea Special March 2025 issue CB 152 by Olive Press Newspaper Spain

Special 20-page pullout

HIDDEN GEMS AND ANCIENT TREASURES

Often hailed as the ‘coolest spot’ on the Costa Blanca, Javea (or Xàbia, in Valenciano) boasts some of Spain’s ﬁnest beaches - if you can get to them

JAVEA is stunning. The town itself is full of ancient sites to see and plenty of bars and restaurants to keep the most dedicated gourmandes happy. But what brings the tourist hordes to this part of the Costa Blanca are its breathtaking beaches and crystal-clear waters. But the peak summer season is possibly not the time to visit what National Geographic and Conde Nast Traveler call one of Spain’s ﬁ nest beaches - Playa Granadella.

In August it is not unusual for the shore to get so packed that it is roped off to new arrivals and those seeking a day on the beach have to head elsewhere. Fortunately, in Javea, there is an elsewhere to go to. Head for Portitxol Beach, situated on the other side of Javea’s dramatic southern headland. The beach, nestled between cliffs, is a beautiful, serene spot with pebbles underfoot and stunning views of the surrounding coastline. It is the perfect spot to relax, but those more energetic take to the water and explore further by swimming

toward the nearby Portitxol Island. It was here, just off the island, that a remarkable piece of history was recently discovered - 57 gold Roman coins that made international headlines. Javea’s beaches not only offer natural beauty but also harbour hidden treasures, adding an intriguing layer of history to the area’s allure. Portitxol, meaning ‘little port’ in Latin, is one of Javea’s hidden gems. Also called Cala de la Barraca, this 900-metre stretch of pebbles and rocks sits between Cap

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PRICELESS: Gold Roman coins and Phoenician amphoras have been found on Javea’s coastline

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Beaches and bars

Prim and Cap Negre.

The beach is sheltered by cliffs and dotted with quaint, privately owned ﬁ shermen’s cottages. It’s the perfect example of Javea’s laid-back charm. While beaches like Granadella and Portitxol often grab the spotlight, Javea offers much more,

especially if you venture off the beaten path. Cala Blanca, for

instance, is accessible only by walking through a round hole in the rock face and leads to a dramatic headland with hidden coves still inaccessible by foot. Another hidden gem is Cala en Calo, which has gained recognition alongside tropical beaches in Thailand and the Philippines. Playa Ambolo, ideal for an early morning or evening swim, is another favourite. For those seeking action, Arenal Beach is Javea’s most popular, sandy beach, offering nightlife and great surf when the conditions are right.

Michelin starred Tula is an unpretentious gem

The Arenal area is also home to Michelin-starred restaurants like Tula, an unpretentious gem run by a local couple, and Bambula, a lively bar known for its late-night vibe. Javea’s port area is equally charming, with the pebble beach Playa de la Grava and a variety of excellent restaurants. It’s also home to the

famous modernist church and the Cinema Jayan, a cinema that showcases original version fi lms throughout the week. For hikers, the rocky trail from the port to Cala Tango offers a rewarding view, with a 17-metre-high platform to jump into the sea. Inland, Javea’s old town, built from local honey-colored tosca stone, offers an atmospheric escape. The 14th-century Iglesia de San Bartolome, made from sandstone quarried at the nearby Cova Tallada (Carved Cave), is a must-see. The town itself, once a fortifi ed haven against Barbary pirates, still has narrow, winding streets perfect for exploring. Be sure to stop by the municipal market, where you can sample a local specialty: the coca, a sourdough fl atbread topped with either chopped tomatoes and salted tuna or a single anchovy.

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From front page

GOLDEN SANDS: At Granadella, while (left) Javea’s church

SNAPSHOTS: From Javea’s Knights Templar fortiﬁed St Bartolome church to the gourmet market

Evenings in Javea are especially lively, as tourists and locals alike gather in the old town’s cafes and bars. For a truly local experience, catch an early ﬁ lm at the cinema near the port and then wander into the old town for tapas and a glass of wine.

Here are three of Javea’s secrets that archeologists, spiritual pilgrims and cave-diving spelunkers have yet to ﬁgure out.

Javea’s hidden depths

THE name of Javea (Xabia in Valenciano) reportedly comes from the Arabic word Xabiga for ‘well’ or ‘cistern’.

Though Javea’s abundance of water is evident in its green hills, the underground secrets of Javea are something cave-divers are still scratching their heads about.

The Moraig river is one of Spain’s most famous for being an underground river – possibly the deepest in the world – but no one can ﬁgure out where it comes from.

The river is believed to begin somewhere beneath Javea in the aquifer of Benissa that stretches beneath the town, before it mysteriously emerges from underground at Benitachell’s Cala de Moraig beach.

Since 1978 cave divers have tried to follow the river to its source without any luck – the most famous of these, the German expert Bernhard Pack (above), won 17 international awards for his documented expeditions before tragically losing his life to the cause in 1992.

According to neighbouring Benitachell’s town hall, the aquifer of Benissa is one of the ‘most unique hydro-geological phenomena in the world’ together with the Greek Island of Cephalonia.

It could be a source of high-quality potable water to see the region through summer droughts – but despite investigations beginning again in 2014, no one can ﬁgure out where this hidden secret of Javea actually resides.

Buried treasures

IMAGINE the day a century ago in 1904.

Agricultural labourers are ploughing land to make way for orange groves in the area of La Lluca.

DISCOVERY: The Treasure was ploughed up 100 years ago

Suddenly the plough hits something, which turns ut to be a ceramic urn buried 1.5 metres deep. Cracking it open, the urn reveals a golden diadem, three gold necklaces, a golden brooch and various gold and silver bracelets. So highly valuable was the treasure that the landowning Torres Orduña family was in the process of selling the pieces to French researchers when Madrid’s Museo Arqueológico Nacional heard of the hoard.

It turned out to be a 4th century BC bridal trousseau (ornaments worn by a bride at her marriage) and it remains on view known as the ‘Treasure of Javea’ and one of the nations most signiﬁcant Iberian ﬁnds.

Javea’s municipal archeologist Ximo Bolufer told the Olive Press the Treasure of Javea was ‘hidden’ underground during a period of conﬂict.

This same hypothesis was given to the haul of 57 golden coins recently found at Portitxol – hidden for safekeeping during a likely raid from Barbary pirates that ravaged Javea’ coasts from the 4th17th century.

Experts from the University of Alicante continue to probe the waters around Portitxol to see how many more buried treasures may yet to be discovered.

They’ve already found the highest concentration of ancient anchors in the whole Mediterranean –some 258 dating back beyond 2,000 years.

THE MIRACLE ON LAS PLANAS

JAVEA’S 175m-high Cabo de San Antonio has been a place of spiritual refuge for close to 700 years.

The headland got its name in 1373 when the bishop of Valencia granted a female hermit Catalina Blas the right to build a hermitage dedicated to Saint Anthony.

The San Antonio monastery soon sprung up next to it, but it didn’t survive long as in 1388, Barbary pirates sacked it and

burnt it to the ground.

Legend has it that three centuries later an intact canvas of the Virgin Mary was found among the rubble, and it is the only surviving vestige of Sor Catalina’s Hieronymite order of monks. It led to the La Plana area becoming a site of pilgrimage for centuries and in 1964 the current monastery Santuario de Nuestra Señora de los Angeles was rebuilt.

Once a year in August it lets a handful of people in on the secret to behold Javea’s own miraculous piece of history hanging above the altar.

LOOK TO THE FUTURE

ROSA Cardona is the ﬁrst woman mayor of Javea, and took ofﬁce in June 2023 as part of a tripartite government involving the Partido Popular (PP), Cuidadanos por Javea (CPJ), and VOX.

Javea’s first woman mayor talks to the Olive Press about her first two years in office and what is in store for the town historic centre reflects centuries of history, while our coastline offers spectacular landscapes. The Montgo Natural Park and Cabo de San Antonio Marine Reserve make Javea ideal for hiking and water sports. Our gastronomy, based on fresh local produce, is another major attraction.

Mayor Cardona, a seasoned lawyer with a background in urban management, talks to the Olive Press about how she intends to shape Javea’s future.

How has Javea developed since you took ofﬁce two years ago?

From the first day, we recognised Javea’s many needs. Our priority was to improve cleanliness, gardening, and security. We faced significant challenges, including a lack of staff at the Town Hall, which we addressed by filling vacant positions and strengthening our teams. This has made the Town Hall more agile, though we acknowledge there's still work to be done.

We’ve also focused on completing projects left unﬁnished by the previous government, such as the municipal indoor pool and the rehabilitation of Casa Candelaria. Our goal is to make Jávea an even more beautiful and safer place with better infrastructure.

What would you say is the unique selling point of Javea?

Javea is a true paradise. Its beauty is undeniable, complemented by an exceptional Mediterranean climate that allows for outdoor activities year-round. It's not just a postcard destination; it's a place where tradition and modernity coexist harmoniously. Our

How do you plan to develop Javea over the next ﬁve years? And 20 years?

In the next ﬁve years, we aim to consolidate Javea as a benchmark for quality of life, sustainability, and infrastructure modernisation. We will enhance public services like cleanliness and security, ensuring the town remains welcoming for residents and visitors. We support sustainable tourism that respects our environment and preserves our identity. Long-term, we envision Javea more integrated with its natural environment, with urban planning that protects green spaces and promotes energy efﬁciency. We want a modern town with optimal public services and a tourism model based on quality and sustainability.

How do you see the demographic changing?

Javea has experienced steady growth in both residents and visitors. We are a diverse municipality with people from different nationalities and cultures, enriching our identity and energising the economy. This growth poses challenges like improving infrastructure and ensuring housing access. We strive to balance development with preserving our environment and quality of life.

How important is Joaquín Sorolla to Javea?

Joaquín Sorolla is crucial to Javea's identity. His work highlighted our landscape's beauty and unique light, making Javea an inspiration for the art world. His legacy is a source of pride and a fundamental part of our cultural history. We continue to celebrate his connection to Javea through various initiatives.

What is your perfect weekend in Javea?

My perfect weekend starts with a stroll through the historic centre, enjoying the cobblestone streets and cosy atmosphere. I love visiting local shops and businesses. If the weather permits, a trip to the coast is a must. In the afternoon, I enjoy walking along coastal routes like the viewpoints trail. At sunset, nothing beats a dinner of local gastronomy. Javea offers endless possibilities for relaxation and enjoyment, both for residents and visitors.

OPTIMISTIC: Javea Mayor Rosa Cardona

QUAINT: Narrow and winding streets abound

HISTORY

Old town walk takes you through Javea’s past

JAVEA’S old town is a perfectly preserved relic of the past, exuding a rustic charm that is all too rare in today’s world.

Dating back to medieval times, its buildings are a patchwork of historic architecture spanning seven centuries.

Today’s old town is distinguished by its narrow lanes adorned with white façades and gothic windows alongside its distinctive tosca sandstone.

The beating heart of the town was once dedicated to the raisin trade, and its ornate raisin drying facilities still remain in the form of sandstone partitions and galleries with large ulls, which would

shelter the grapes on thatched mats to dry.

Indeed, to walk through the old town is to dip one’s toe into a rich mercantile history. In the 13th century, Javea was but a small enclosure sealed in by city walls but the 16th and 17th centuries gave rise to the construction of Javea’s most inspired architecture, with gothic buildings such as the Palau dels Sapena and the Casa dels Bolufer. There is a nice range of small shops and restaurants to stop

at, including the excellent Irish-Romanian-run place, La Sucreria, right by the main church.

Also look out for the recently opened Carniceria tapas bar, on the outskirts of the centre. Make sure to look out for its ancient market, now converted into a gourmet hall, perfect for lunch or supper.

Needless to say Javea’s old town retains an allure that has wowed visitors for centuries and long may it continue.

CHEWING THE CUD: In front of the town church just as old men have done for centuries

CENTRE OF ATTRACTION: The church is still at the heart of the community, while (below) the Palau dels Sapena

TRULY SPECIAL

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guidance to both buying and selling your home and right now we have some very attractive offers for both buyers and sellers alike. We have a portfolio of attractive propertiesvendors have trusted us for years with their homes but now demand outstrips supply and we have a large collection of buyers, investors and developers who are constantly demanding more property. If you have a property to sell in Javea or surrounding areas please contact us urgently via telephone, email or just pop into our office next to the Club de Tenis in Javea for a friendly chat - we look forward to helping you!

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PRETTY AS A PICTURE

TIbiza-style villa, JAVEA

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Traditional Mediterranean villa, JAVEA

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still came

HE year of 1908 marked the first time Londoners set eyes on Javea. In an age where aeroplanes were still learning how to fly, and photographs still in development, the meeting inevitably came through the paintbrush.

But the exhibition at Grafton Galleries through May, June and July weren’t just any old paintings of Javea.

tional success.

Artist Joaquin Sorolla hoped that his ﬁrst UK exhibition featuring Javea would make him rich

The posters put Javea’s name next to that of Joaquin Sorolla, calling him ‘the world’s greatest living painter’ following internapasses everything,” he wrote in one of more than 2,000 letters kept by his wife, Clotilde.

Sorolla, born in Valencia in 1863, fell in love with the Costa Blanca fishing town of Javea during a visit in 1896.

“Javea is sublime, immense, the best I know to paint. It sur-

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Sorolla’s obsession with the play of light and water in Javea saw the town make up a large part of the 278 paintings he took to London in search of fortune.

Among these paintings include Cabo de San Antonio, Javea that captured the site of Javea’s iconic headland back in 1896. There was also Cordelores de Javea, Nadadores de Javea, El puerto de Javea, A child in Javea and countless others referencing the seafaring, sea-loving and golden-coloured mo-

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INSPIRATION: Sorolla soaked in the many vistas to be found in and around Javea for his works

ments Sorolla encountered.

One of Sorolla’s most famous paintings known to have sold was Encajonando pasas from 1900, showing hundreds of women in Javea packaging raisins for an international trade of which Britain was one of Denia port’s largest customers.

While London may have fallen in love with Javea and Sorolla at the exhibition, the opposite never happened.

Sorolla was disappointed with his reception in London. He complained about the cold air, he complained about being lonely, and he feared the ‘polite’ upper-class English were too cerebral to appreciate his masterpieces of light and fresh air.

you, for you at least have the children,” he wrote to Clotilde.

Worst of all, Sorolla sold few paintings in London in 1908.

“I feel old, I can’t live alone, I’m emptier than

“Today is a disgusting day, I’ve only just had my lunch with electric light and it’s already 2pm – I hate big cities, viva Javea.” England later proved to be Sorolla’s lucky ticket, however, as it was there he met American philanthropist Archer Milton Sorolla soon received an invite to exhibit at The Hispanic Society of America in New York, where he sold 195

The society later commissioned Sorolla to paint a huge Vision of Spain , that captured the Spanish nation in a series of works taking six years (19131919) to complete.

By the time Sorolla was done, he had earned enough money to buy a house in central Madrid that today houses his works as the Museo Sorolla.

When he died in 1923 Sorolla was already established as one of Spain’s all time greats.

It took another 100 years – until 2019 –for London’s National Gallery to put on a British exhibition of Sorolla ( Sorolla: Master of Light ).

Except that, this time, Sorolla’s painting of Javea had already become priceless.

MASTERPIECE: Sorolla’s Fisherwoman at work, while inset the artist in action

COAST WITH THE MOST

FOR a coastal destination like Javea it’s strange that a mountain means so much.

The honey-coloured Montgo massif is only 753m tall.

But that’s enough to make it a photogenic backdrop as well as giving Javea one of the best microclimates in the world.

According to one of the world’s ﬁrst major microclimate studies conducted in the 1990s, Javea shot to number two behind Rio de Janeiro, also backed by its famous mountain.

Javea is one of Europe’s best places to locate in thanks to its climate and mountain backdrop

By Joshua Parﬁtt

The Montgo blocks icy, arctic winds from ruining winter (20C days in January are common) while cool sea breezes keep scorching summer temperatures to between 23C to 27C. This geographical stroke of luck has

turned Javea into a top retirement destination for expats the world over. And Javea understandably swells in summer as the well-to-do from Valencia and Madrid ﬂock down to enjoy their well-earned holidays.

For them, Javea has become something of a status symbol thanks to the entrancing paintings of Joaquin Sorolla, as well as being the birthplace and home of Spain’s former world no.3 tennis player David Ferrer.

Javea also shares a bounty of fresh gambas rojas (red prawns) with its neighbour of Denia, one of the gastronomy hotspots of Spain.

According to popular local agency Blanca International, Javea has one of the largest concentrations of foreigners in Spain.

“With a reputation for stunning beaches and great food it’s no surprise that Javea has one of the highest expat populations, with 54% coming from abroad,” says Sigve Kommedal.

“In Valencia province, this is only beaten by Calpe, Altea, Teulada-Moraira and Rojales,” says Kommedal.

But this popularity comes at a price, with few places on Spain’s coastline having such high house prices.

With average prices in Javea at €2,519 per m2, it is the most expensive municipality in the Valencian Community, followed by Benidorm at €2,466 per m2 and Altea at €2,203 per m2.

On a par with Estepona and Nerja

on the Costa del Sol, it is considerably cheaper however, than Marbella which averages out at €4,526 per m2, according to Idealista. Marbella is also home to one of the most expensive streets in the country, with houses averaging €7 million.

While the Valencian Community doesn’t make the top 10 most expensive streets in Spain, you can still pay a pretty penny, with the area’s most costly street, Jazmines in Poble Nou de Benitatxell, Alicante, clocking in at an average €2.7 million per property. It is closely followed by Javea’s Calle Penaguila, which according to Idealista averaged

BRUSH UP!

Yout at nearly €1.3 million in 2023.

And that’s no surprise with the amazing road snaking up from the edge of the port into the nearby hills with incredible views.

OU cleaned your teeth this morning…so are you sure they are really clean? Its not really possible to see if you have done the job right as plaque is the same colour as the teeth and that is what you are trying to remove, and you can only see the front teeth.

It is important to be thorough and consistent, we are sure you want to start the day with a clean teeth and fresh breath?

So here are the 6 commons mistakes that people make…

● When to clean? Before breakfast and before bed is most logical. Cleaning after meals is not recommended as can more likely lead to enamel erosion and sensitivity.

● Not brushing into the gums around the necks of the teeth Avoiding the gums will prevent you from removing all the plaque since most of it is next to the gum and if left there it will eventually infect the gums causing gingivitis which make the gums bleed on brushing. Gingivitis is the ﬁrst stage of gum disease, when plaque penetrates the gum causing inﬂammation then bleeding tendency.

● Not reaching the back far enough Its takes effort to think and reach right to the very back and once you are there you need to spend a bit more time on that area especially if there are wisdom teeth.

● Not brushing the insides This is common as people tend to clean the front of the teeth much better than inside…. the angle of the brush needs to be adjusted to effectively clean round the insides right to the back of the mouth both upper and lower.

NEED A DENTIST YOU CAN TRUST?

They say location is everything and this street is hard to beat with less than 100 houses, most of them large - but not outsized - with decent gardens and in easy reach of both countryside walks and the heart of Javea old town and the port, with its cinema and restaurants.

Currently the most expensive home for sale in Calle Penaguila is at €4.5m, a four bedroom property with an inﬁnity pool, while you can pick up a ﬁve bedroom further down the hill for €1.2m.

● Brushing too softly

People seems to be worried about ‘receding gums’ which is silly as you do far more damage to gums by not cleaning properly!

Also some soft brushes are often too soft and so not effective cleaners, whereas as hard brush bristles don’t bend around so well in between the teeth and brushing hard with these brushes is too hard on the gums.

So, generally use a medium bristle small headed brush and with this you cannot go far wrong.

● Not brushing or ﬂossing in between the teeth

Many people think this is unimportant and too much bother but in truth it has increasing importance for adults (not for children) as the interdental spaces tend to widen as we age and therefore, hold more plaque which the toothbrush cannot reach in any case. This plaque left there can cause gum disease and gum pocketing and lead to cavities most of which start between the teeth.

If you don’t minibrush or ﬂoss then your mouth is only 60% clean.

In short…a quality medium small headed brush, vigorous, circular movements and a thorough job - a maximum clean in the morning with interproximal brushes and a second quicker clean at night. We recommend electric brushes of course for an easier deeper clean, especially Phillips Sonicare

NEED A CLEAN UP AND POLISH? Come and visit out friendly dental Hygienist Alex for a thorough clean and personalized advice.

WELL KNOWN: Montgo, prawns and Ferrer are just some of Javea’s claim to fame

BIG FIVE

Blanca Cars reaches an impressive motoring milestone

in Javea

IT might have taken ﬁve years, but Blanca Cars is now the leading all-inclusive car hire company in Javea.

Since its launch, the company has revolutionized the car rental industry in the region, offering a hassle-free, all-inclusive experience.

With a ﬂeet of brand-new vehicles, no deposit required, and free home delivery, Blanca Cars has quickly become a favorite among both locals and visitors.

The ﬁrm’s customer-ﬁrst approach ensures seamless travel solutions, whether for short-term rentals, airport services, or even car replacements while vehicles are being serviced.

One of the standout services is its meet and greet service at Alicante and Valencia airport. Unlike traditional rental companies, this avoids long waits and unnecessary paperwork with clients met as they leave the airport.

For those who prefer not to drive on the motorway, the company also offers an airport transfer service in collaboration with trusted partners.

This means travelers can be picked up from the airport and driven directly to their destination, where their rental car will already be waiting for themfully prepared and ready to use.

Convenient Free Home Delivery Across the Region

Supporting the Community with Garage Car Hire Services

And Blanca Cars doesn’t just cater to holidaymakers - it also supports local residents with their garage car hire service.

If a customer’s personal vehicle is in the mechanic’s workshop, it will deliver a rental car for them to use in the meantime.

Once the repairs are complete, the company also collects the rental car directly from the garage, ensuring total convenience.

the gold standard for all-inclusive, stress-free car hire.

From Humble Beginnings to International Expansion: The Success Story of Blanca Cars

its own depot at Alicante Airport, followed by another in Valencia Airport in 2023, further enhancing its seamless airport meet-and-greet service.

Another reason Blanca Cars has gained such a loyal following is its free home delivery service, spanning from Oliva to Villajoyosa.

A Commitment to Hassle-Free Car Hire

Whether staying in a private villa, hotel, or resort, customers can have their rental car delivered straight to their doorstep, making travel arrangements effortless. They also offer FREE car hire to clients who sell or buy a property with their sister company Blanca International Real Estate.

Blanca Cars’ success over the past ﬁve years is a testament to its dedication to customer satisfaction and transparency.

With no hidden fees, no deposits, and a ﬂeet of reliable new cars, the team have redeﬁned the car rental experience in Javea and beyond.

As they mark their ﬁfth anniversary, Blanca Cars continues to set ternational

Blanca Cars began its journey five years ago with a humble fleet of just five second-hand Opel Corsas. Thanks to its customer-first approach and commitment to hassle-free, all-inclusive rentals, the company quickly expanded, growing into a large fleet of brand-new vehicles, ranging from the compact Fiat 500 to spacious 7 and 9-seater models. Both manual and automatic options are available.

In 2022, Blanca Cars established

Villa, Les Fonts Benitachell

Nestled in the sought-after Les Fonts area of Benitachell, this beautiful villa offers breathtaking sea and mountain views, a private pool, and a peaceful Mediterranean setting, perfect for those seeking a blend of comfort and convenience. Ideally located just 10 minutes from Jávea’s Arenal Beach, Moraira and Cala Moraig, this property is close to supermarkets, the historic old town of Benitachell, and the renowned Lady Elisabeth International School.

Cala Blanca Javea

This beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom apartment in the highly sought-after Cala Blanca area of Javea offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and stunning Mediterranean surroundings. Located just a 1-minute walk from the sea and within easy reach of the area’s best beaches, restaurants, and amenities, this is an ideal property for full-time living, a holiday home, or an investment opportunity.

By 2024, the company had strengthened its partnerships, offering free delivery to all hotels, resorts, and garages across the region. Now, looking ahead to 2025, Blanca Cars is set to expand even further, introducing short and long-term leasing solutions in 11 countries, solidifying its position as a leader in the stressfree car rental industry.

For more information or to book your next car rental, visit Blanca Cars online at www.blancacars.com or contact their friendly team today.

Apartment in Javea

Discover the perfect blend of modern elegance and coastal charm with this stunning south-facing luxury apartment, ideally situated between Jávea Old Town and the Port. Built in 2023, this contemporary residence offers exceptional comfort, top-quality finishes, and a prime location just minutes from local amenities, restaurants, and the Mediterranean coastline.

CROWNING ACHIEVEMENT

Javea’s most established agency is celebrating its 55th year in 2025. The Olive Press ﬁnds out what makes it tick

CROWN Properties celebrates its 55th anniversary this year.

The leading estate agency was set up in Javea in late 1969 to help British retirees ﬁnd long-term winter rentals. Under the guidance of Roy Terence

Turner a number of businesses were set up to purchase and sell properties on the coast, as well as arrange rentals.

Turner, who arrived from the UK with his entire family, also launched a car rental business and even the

Costa

Blanca’s ﬁrst British-style butcher.

While

he ran the real estate side and car business, his wife, Brenda man-

aged the butcher shop. It was a decade later that Miguel Bas Segarra joined the company after marrying their daughter Laura. For centuries, his family had made their living as farmers, growing vegetables and various types of fruit from the nearby countryside.

The Bas i Segarra family is one of the oldest indigenous families in Javea and their lives long revolved around subsistence, with fertile lands both inland and near the coast. Life wasn’t easy, but at least they had their own oranges and almond trees as well as vineyards to produce their own wine, which they sold to the market.

So, when the tourism boom began in the 1970s, it was only natural that most of them would work in tourism, both in construction and in the hotel and catering industry, as well as various types of maintenance services.

Miguel, now 65, from a family of seven siblings, was no exception.

The current director of Crown Properties, he had begun working during the summer of 1974 at the age of 14 at a vacation rental company, a huge business that soon had 300 employees.

“An older brother was already working there, so it seemed like an ideal place to start working,” he told the

Olive Press

“The company rented out around 800 properties between Gandia and Benidorm, and 90% of bookings were made through in-person visits or by phone. Unlike today, when most bookings are made online or through tour operators.”

It was a huge business, and many of the tenants came from large companies, such as RENFE, SEAT, and IBERDROLA. Some stayed for up to three months at a time.

But just as he was beginning to enjoy and learn the trade, he was ordered to do military service in January 1979. And by the time he returned a year later, in 1980, a global crisis

Family Business

Currently, Crown Properties is run by the entire BAS TURNER family.

Miguel’s wife, Laura, and his two children, Yolanda, 35, and Miguel Angel, 31, work for the company.

They are also assisted by bilin- gual real estate agents.

“Yolanda has been with us for ten years and has become a fundamental pillar,” explains Miguel. His son, Miguel An- gel, has been instrumental in relaunching the office in all types of markets and collab- orations around the world, thanks to the media and social media.

“It’s fantastic to have the whole family working here, and I think it generates a lot of confidence in our clients and in myself,” says Miguel.

had struck, and the company had laid off 90% of its workforce.

It was a ‘very difﬁcult time’, but fortunately, his father-in-law Roy asked him to work for him. Although the business took some time to consolidate, the English were the largest buyers in the market in the early 1980s, and by 1983, the new company had seven employees.

“I started with rentals and gradually moved into construction and sales,” he explains.

“We worked with 18 real estate agencies in the UK who sent us clients, and we found homes for buyers throughout the province of Alicante.

“We would meet them at the air-

port and take them to a rental villa or, sometimes, a hotel to spend the weekend.

“Some stayed at the Parador de Jávea, built in 1966, but most stayed in Benidorm.”

Diplomats

At that time, the vast majority of English clients wanted to buy in Javea or inland. They could buy a villa on a 1,000-square-meter plot with a pool for £60,000 in Javea, or for £24,000 inland, in the nearby Jalon and Orba valleys.

But the British loved Javea, for its safety and because the old town

and the nearby Montgo area are south-facing and well-protected. They came here after retirement and wanted a charming location with land in the nearby hills, plenty of sun, and close to the sea.

The wealthiest, including businessmen and diplomats, ended up buying in the most exclusive area, right near the town and above the port and Yacht Club.

Today, Crown Properties specializes in the purchase and sale of apartments and residential homes for vacations or investment throughout the Marina Alta, as well as any necessary renovations during construction.

“We rely on qualiﬁed and highly

trusted professionals,” explains Miguel, a keen football and padel tennis fan.

He insists that few places in Spain have such a mild climate, so many things to do, and offer an incredible variety of sports and activities. “All the clubs are very well organized and also have a cinema.”

In his free time, Miguel makes it his business to dedicate time to his family. (Special dedication to his granddaughter), friends, or his garden, where he tends his vegetables with his tractor and walks his dogs in the countryside.

● Javea is one of the safest areas in the Valencian Community. Thanks to its geography, it’s one of the most protected areas against burglaries and thefts. “The Civil Guard told me that being far from the highway and the National Highway and having only three access points to the town makes it easier to mo- nitor,” explains Miguel. “In ad- dition, it’s very safe for children to live and develop, according to statistics.”

● Two of the most expensive streets in the Valencian Com- munity are Calle Caleta and Calle Penaguilla, just above the port of Javea. “It’s an incredibly privileged area, and we recently sold a villa there for several million euros, and we have three more for sale in this area for between 2 and 3 million euros,” explains Miguel. “Each of them has more than 1,000 square meters of land, and up to 28% of that area can be built on.” Another expensive street is the winding Carrer de Pic Tort, which descends from the Mira- dor del Castell de la Granadella to the idyllic Granadella beach. The average price of a property on this street is around €2.5 million. Meanwhile, Jazmines Street, near Benitatxell, has an average price of around €2 million.

STRUCTURAL SURVEY BENEFITS

Better be safe than sorry by getting a proper structural survey done

ALTHOUGH some estate agents still claim that ‘they don’t do surveys in Spain’ structural surveys (also called home inspections) are available locally and are just as worthwhile as in any other part of the world.

Buying a property is a big investment for most people, so it makes absolute sense to know what you are buying, identify any signiﬁ cant defects early, and use this information when making an offer.

La Granadella

The results of a survey might well help you negotiate a lower price or sometimes the survey will conﬁ rm you are getting a great deal or even save you from a troublesome property.

If you cannot arrange a survey before paying a reservation or deposit a ‘subject to survey’ clause can be included when making payments (provided all parties accept).

For free initial advice and a survey quotation contact - Mark Paddon Building Surveyor MCIOB.CAATIE +34 653 733 066 mrmpaddon@hotmail.com www.surveyorscostablanca.com

THE challenge starts in the 700ha Granadella Forest Park, a scrubland still recovering from a forest ﬁ re in 2016 that decimated the area. The most challenging partthe route, this walk through scrubland can be steep and rocky, though the lack of trees offers sublime views all the way down to Javea’s amazing Playa de la Granadella. (above). After a short scramble up the hill from the beach the Mediterranean arrives like a balm for sore bodies out from Castell de la Granadella viewpoint.

VISTA TO VISTA

The Mirador challenge may be gruelling at 30kms long, but the views more than make up for it

CCHALLENGE: The route takes in 15 viewpoints as it winds along the coast

Advantage Building Surveys

is the

The protruding cliffs

mark the

point on the

to Ibiza, which can be seen on a clear day across the shimmering blue. But Cabo de la Nau also refers to a high, rocky outcrop boasting two restaurants, Cabo de la Nau and Mirador de Javea, with unbeaten views over the Med. The viewpoint itself, the ﬁfth on the challenge, is bejewelled with purple clumps of toothed lavender—a rare, endemic species that is separate to the more common English lavender seen in ornamental gardens.

Structural Surveys Covering the entire Costa Blanca 653 733 066 96 280 7247

If you are buying property in Spain or have problems with a property you already own, a professional structural survey can help identify and record defects whilst suggesting remedial solutions and cost implications.

Paddon BSc Hons. MCIOB. CAAT. is a British Building Surveyor and Spanish registered Arquitecto Tecnico, insured via Lloyd’s of London. He has been working on the Costa Blanca and Costa Calida for over 20 years carrying out buyers structural surveys and providing general property purchase and insurance claims. (Thermal camera inspection is also included).

Whether its an old town house, apartment or luxury villa every property purchase represents a considerable investment and deserves a close inspection for defects such as damp, termites, subsidence etc. Specialist structural assessment of problem retaining walls and swimming pools is also undertaken.

Fast turnaround video survey options now available.

FREE buyers guide available via website. Initial telephone and email advice is FREE.

Mark

ABO de la Nau

name given

this whole headland south of Javea.

here

closest

Costa Blanca

La Falzia

VISTAS are places for dreamers as well as the adventurous, looking for something different.

Cabo de la Nau

They are also perfect places to show off on Instagram and Facebook - and to get in your minimum 10,000 steps a day.

The Mirador Challenge helps you with those… and a lot, lot more.

First created by British expats Mike and Fay Smith over

THE woods around La Falzia viewpoint are the only forested area on this otherwise highly-developed coastline.

But with sunrise views over Porticholl island, who can blame residents for choosing such an inspiring vista early in the day.The water is so crystal clear you can almost see the ﬁsh, and you probably would quite rapidly if it wasn’t for wooden barriers keeping you from the sheer cliffedge. A great place for walking, La Falzia is only a stone’s throw from the Playa de la Barraca, which offers a secluded bay for swimming in the summer months.

From this, the seventh viewpoint, you drop down to Javea and along the coast to the port.

a decade ago, it traces 15 viewpoints (miradores) along the dramatic limestone coastline cradling Javea.

The route covers 29km and promises some of the best scenery in Spain.You can of course do parts of it, or the whole lot in one day if you get your skates on early. Here, we pick out our favourite sections.

TOLDOS / AWNINGS

Enjoy

•

With

Enjoy

THE third viewpoint looks out over the Isla del Descubridor (Discoverer’s Island), allegedly named after a Javean sailor who accompanied Christopher Columbus on his ﬁrst voyage to the Americas.

A more shocking discovery for anyone who decides to take a pair of binoculars, however, would be the nudist beach at the foot of this cliff.

The real crown jewels is the dramatic coastline stretching east of the Ambolo viewpoint, locked in a perpetual battle with the sea that happily produces the shingled beaches enjoyed by the fully-clothed and nudist alike.

ROM the port you have the ﬁnal climb up the winding footpath to the top of Cabo San Antonio which offers perhaps the most stunning, near-360 degree views on the Javea coastline.

From Ibiza to the east, the whole of Javea beneath you, and the Montgo mountain to the west, this is a true dreamer's paradise.

From here, you can see how the citrus groves just outside the old town of Javea ﬁnd sanctuary in this valley from the hard limestones cliffs that confront the sea like a rampaging Spanish bull. And as you gaze longingly over the town, it won’t be long before you’re enticed back into one of its bars to remind your battered body why beer is best served ice-cold.

Requena

Jávea, Alicante

Cabo San Antonio

Cala Ambolo

History for sale

d in the picturesque and warm historic of Jávea, Taberna de Jávea and its ated properties offer a unique opportunity of the most charming areas of the Costa With its narrow cobbled streets, houses d with flowers, and a magical atmosphere, ally at nightfall, the historic center of is a place that invites you to stroll and er.

BUILT the year that Napoleon invaded the Iberian Peninsula, this stunning mansion has seen its fair share of colourful history.

Set over three floors in the heart of one of Spain’s most emblematic coastal towns, it is said to have secret tunnels running below it.

Just 20 steps from Javea’s 14th century San Bartolome church - fortified by the Knights Templars - La Taberna would make the perfect boutique hotel or family home.

With a restaurant-bar licence for 80 clients, it is already a successful business crying out for a sensitive makeover.

Some 550 metres square in size, it could happily be converted into a nine-bedroom hotel, maintaining its restaurant and evocative internal patio.

Also next to Javea’s bustling municipal market, you have greengrocers, butchers and fishmongers literally right on your doorstep, not to mention tapas bars.

Incredible business opportunity in the heart of Valencia’s most emblematic coastal resort

nvironment not only attracts tourists from r the world but is also the vibrant heart of al community, making it an ideal location y business.

This is pole position in the Costa Blanca’s most upmarket, exclusive resort and the old town has been growing exponentially over the last few years.

Built in 1807, La Taberna de Javea was joined by a second property in 1846 adding further bedrooms and at one point was the village school.

Now owned by a retired engineer and his wife, an artist, from Dublin, they ran a successful furniture and antiques business on the coast for years.

TLA TABERNA

“We love it here and will be staying in Javea,” explained owner Michelle Collins. “We spent two years and have done all the hard work to get its licence and deeds in order.

“The restaurant licence is up to date and it can easily make €750,000 a year, with a further €300,000-plus from the bedrooms upstairs.”

in love with the two buildings a decade ago. It had been for sale through various sites, but the complicated deeds with various owners put most potential buyers off.

It didn’t help that complicated roadworks meant the old town was effectively cut off to visitors for years.

Taberna de Jávea is a landmark restaurant located in the heart of Jávea, known for its excellent and cozy atmosphere With years of experience in the sector, this business has built a loyal clientele and a strong reputation within the local community and among tourists

The pair, who moved to Javea 20 years ago, fell

“It took two years to sort out historic inheritance issues and discrepancies between the town hall and the land register,” added Michelle. All now on one deed, the property has an amazing collection of furniture, which could be acquired by agreement.

Much of it is antique and there is an old bulls head on the wall that brings in Spanish bullfight fans from all over the country.

“It’s worth around €4,000 I’ve

Most of the long term locals remember it when it was a school

been told and lots of people come to get pictures taken with it,” continued Michelle, a keen music fan, who has hundreds of regulars each week. Most of the long term locals remember it when it was a school half a century ago and parts of it have protected status.

Anyone looking for a dream investment opportunity in a rapidly growing upmarket tourist town should get in touch with Michelle at hst.michelle@gmail. com or call 0034 622325385.

The current asking price has just come down to just €1.45 million for a quick sale before summer.

THE HOUSE

CHARM: La Taberna’s internal patio

POLE POSITION: Next to Javea’s famous church

Specsavers Becomes Seepoint: A fresh look for the Jávea opticians you’ve always trusted

From the 1st of May, the well-known name in the world of eye care is getting a new look.

Specsavers Ópticas Jávea, a trusted optician in our community, will become Seepoint Ópticas, marking an exciting new chapter. While the name is changing, you can rest assured that the same excellent service, expert care, comprehensive eye tests and great offers will remain unchanged.

Serving the visual health needs of Jávea since 2006, the team at Seepoint Ópticas remains dedicated to providing the highest quality care. The only difference? A more modern, refreshed image, along with a wider selection of stylish frames to suit your needs and help you find the perfect pair to complement both your vision and style.

A New Name, The Same Commitment

Seepoint continues to operate from the same convenient location. The team remains the same, with highly skilled optometrists continuing to provide the best

eye care. Whether you’re booking a routine eye test, a contact lens consultation, or simply updating your glasses, you’ll receive the same high standard of service you’ve known at Specsavers Ópticas Jávea.

Customer care is at the heart of Seepoint Ópticas’ values. From the friendly welcome at the front desk to the expertise of the optometrists, every visit will be as comfortable and professional as ever. The team is committed to providing personalised advice and guidance to ensure your eye health is maintained at its best.

More Choice, More Style

One of the most exciting changes with the rebrand is an expanded selection of frames, including designer brands such as Ted Baker, Karen Millen, Karl Lagerfeld, and many more. Seepoint Ópticas now offers a broader range of glasses to suit every taste, from timeless classics to modern, fashion-forward styles. Whether you’re looking for something understated or bold, there’s a pair for everyone.

Seepoint Ópticas will also continue offering the fantastic deals that Specsavers Ópticas customers have enjoyed, including two-for-one offers on glasses from €69, including prescription sunglasses and designer frames, special discounts for the over-50s, and affordable contact lenses, including our free contact lens trial!

Visit Seepoint Ópticas Today

Seepoint Ópticas is looking forward to welcoming new and returning customers to experience the same trusted service under a fresh new name.

Existing customers will receive an information letter explaining the transition. If you’re due for an eye test or need to update your frames, now is the perfect time to visit. Book your appointment today and see the difference with Seepoint Ópticas!

At Seepoint, we offer you the best comprehensive eye test, the best expert care, and the same great offers!

P OO LVILLAS

avant-garde religious architecture, it stands out for its bold lines and its use of space. On the outside, its 12 slender pillars represent an allegory of the 12 apostles. Inside, its cement and red pine wood interior is said to represent

MODERNIST: Sculptural Nuestra Señora

building its boat keel shape. It is a must visit from 9am to 8pm all year round.

LOYALTY REWARDED

Mark Petrie brings more than 50 years experience to his clients and a helping hand to Britons

MARK Petrie moved to Spain when he was just 11 years old and opened his ﬁrst business here in 1977.

Today he counts on hundreds of loyal clients from all over Spain and has rightfully been recognised in the UK with an MBE for his services to expats.

So, it's no surprise to discover that Mark was also Denia's Honorary British Consul - a safe pair of hands to turn to in a time of crisis, but has since retired from the post.

His company, Mark Petrie Insurance Brokers, brings more than 50 years of experience offering clients the best available policies tailored to their individual needs.

With ofﬁces in Javea and Denia, his experienced team offers a wide range of insurance services from car, home, health and boat insurance, to legal assistance policies.

Because the brokerage is not affiliated to any company, it can offer the most appropriate policies on the market to suit individual needs at the most

competitive prices.

His team of ﬁve works with all the leading agents such as Liberty, Allianz, Plus Ultra, Reale, Zurich, DKV, Salus and many more to offer a personalised service from day one.

“Each policy is tailored to what the customer needs and wants, and we are very expat orientated,” explained Mark.

While we have many clients here, we have others from as far away as Galicia, Madrid, Sevilla and Málaga. By reducing response times and with an insurance programme run by professionals, our clients get the most out of any policy that they take out.

Towering offer

JAVEA’s port is about to witness a jaw-dropping display of human acrobatics as the Muixeranga de la Marina Alta association prepares to unveil its latest gravity-defying creation.

This Sunday, (March 30), the coastal town will come alive with a heart-stopping performance that'll leave you gobsmacked.

The star of the show?

Fun and games as debut of latest ‘human tower’ will be made in Javea Port

By Dilip Kuner

this unmissable event. They're hoping ‘El Portitxol’ will become the talk of the region, with plans to show it off in every town they visit.

A brandnew four-storey human tower named ‘El Portitxol' will be debuted.

But it's not just about the tower! Expect a proper knees-up with traditional music from the Colla del Portitxol's dulzainas and tabals adding to the excitement.

IMPRESSIVE: Debut of latest human tower will be made

Mavi Perez, Javea’s Councillor for Culture; Amadeu Ros, representing the Fishermen's Guild; and Pepe Signes, Vice President of the Muixeranga de la Marina Alta have been spotted around town (pictured right), proudly showing off posters for

It's set to be a cultural spectacle, with ancient street dances and human pyramids that'll make your head spin, starting

So, if you fancy a bit of death-defying entertainment with a side of Spanish tradition, get yourself down to Javea’s harbour this Sunday. It's free, it's fabulous, and it's guaranteed to be a day you won't forget in a hurry!

TICK THE RIGHT BOX

WITH pretty as a picture panoramas, gorgeous beaches, the Montgo mountain, lively social life and a fabulous range of properties to suit most budgets, it’s no wonder Jávea is a popular choice for people moving to Spain.

Jávea’s coastline is so attractive there is a special route of 15 view-points (miradores) offering panoramic and spectacular views. Add 320 days of sunshine a year, a golf course, excellent restaurants, and an incredible quality of life, and Jávea ticks the Yes box for many expats looking for a new life in a top location on the Costa Blanca.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT LOCATION: When people say location is the most important factor, they’re right! A beach-front property by the Are-nal or Port sounds idyllic, but it will be busy and noisy in the summer plus parking could be super difﬁ-cult.

Likewise, living up the Montgó mountain or around Granadella beach with far-reaching views can be relaxing. But you’ll have to drive everywhere which could become a bore if you must ferry children to school, friends’ houses, and after school activities.

THINK ABOUT YOUR NEEDS:

Do you want to walk to the shops, bars and restaurants?

Do you want to be near to a school? Do you need good public transport links?

What is the Wi-Fi like in this area?

Then see if the property you like is in the right location for you. “Rent before you buy” is the advice you’ll get from many people when you’re moving to the area and we agree. We deal with winter lets and long-term rentals as well as sales and would love to help.

Michelle Hughes of local estate agency Villa Mia explains why so many people choose Javea as a place to live

THINGS TO DO IN JÁVEA:

You’ll be pleased to know Jávea is a very social town with lots of clubs and associations for all ages. These include a tennis club, rugby club, theatre group, computer club, U3A for people no longer in full-time employment and various business networking meetings.

On top of this we have lots of ﬁestas. This June it is our favourite with the International Festival plus the Fogueres de Sant Joan – do not miss these if you are in the area as it will create special memories that are unforgettable.

JUST WANT TO RELAX?

Of course you can be as active as you like with cycling, hiking, walking, padel and much more but nothing stops you from enjoying hours by the pool or a leisurely lunch. Take Javea at your own pace. There is something new to discover every day and every reason to come back & see more.

The team at VillaMia estate agency on the Arenal in Jávea has many years of experience of living and working in this beautiful region. Get in touch to discuss moving to Jávea and ﬁnding your dream prop-erty in the right location for you.

MiSolar – Solar Specialists

Avenida de la Fontana, 18, Local 1, Jávea +34 611 212 289 – info@misolar.website www.misolar.website

MiSolar offers a complete service – everything is included in your budget

✓ Installation

✓ LEGAL – Registration in the Town Hall and boletin “certificate of legislation”

✓ Management of aid from the Town Hall and where applicable, Government grants

✓ Management of the sale of surpluses with the electricity company

HERE TO HELP

WHETHER you want to sell, buy or build your property in Spain, the Dream Properties Group is your high service partner to contact.

Not only do we actively search for your dream home, but thanks to our marketing and extensive client network, we also sell properties quickly to the right buyer.

It is our passion and goal to match the right property to the right person. And if your ideal home doesn’t exist yet, we can help you to realise it via our professional architects and experienced construction team.

Dream Properties and the important Dutch brand Spaanse Droomhuizen assist you in every step of the buying process, from the first orientation and viewings to legal and financial guidance and far beyond. That way, you can enjoy your new life in Spain without worries. With many years of experience and hundreds of happy clients we are ready to help you in finding the ideal villa or apartment in Jávea, Moraira or anywhere else in coastal Spain. Looking for a modern new-build apartment, a charming Ibiza-style villa or a rustic house full of character? We’re here to help!

Visit us in Valencia or Moraira ��

Call us on (+34) 963 125 000 ��

Want to know more?

Check out our websites: www.dreampropertiesinternational.com www.spaansedroomhuizen.com